Va$htie Kola, also known as Downtown's Sweetheart, is widely notorious for being a creative, talented and beautiful tastemaker who occupies several scenes of New York. An overall "It Girl" whose photos you've probably seen all over the Internet.

I wouldn't say that art has necessarily changed my life but more so has enhanced it. It has broadened my knowledge with many cultures, connecting me to the creative realm of the many places I have visited, and it has also introduced me to a plethora of interesting people and networks.

She recently headlined a show at the Phoenix where she blew the audience away with her inspired performance. Though some folks say it's hard to define her style, there's one thing that couldn't be clearer: she was born to sing and she is fulfilling her destiny.

Ask an artist like Kardinal Offishall to talk within the theme "Art is Power" and then sit back, 'cause you know he's going to tear it up. Kardi was one of three keynote speakers kicking off a celebration for the 20th anniversary of the Fresh Arts Program. Here's what Kardi threw down at the keynote address.